Sexually Transmitted Infections
ANSWERS
If you are concerned that you may have an STI, check out at a sexual health clinic as soon as possible.
Do not engage in sex, including oral sex, until you have had a check-up.
You can have an STI and infect your partner during sex without realizing it.
STI signs and symptoms
An STI can cause the following symptoms:
Unusual vaginal, penis, or anus discharge pain when peeing lumps or skin growths around the genitals or bottom (anus)
A rash, unusual vaginal bleeding, itchy genitals or anus blisters and sores around your genitals, or anus warts in your mouth or throat is extremely rare.
If you have STI symptoms, go to a sexual health clinic.
a sexual partner has STI symptoms; you are concerned after having sex without a condom, you are pregnant with STI symptoms
Many STIs, such as HIV, have no symptoms at all. The only way to be certain is to be tested.
You can see your doctor, but if they suspect you have an STI, they will most likely refer you to a sexual health clinic.
Sexual health clinics treat genital and urinary system issues. You can usually walk in without making an appointment.
You will usually get test results faster than your doctor, and you might not have to pay a prescription fee for treatment.
You can feel at ease discussing your sexual activities or orientation with your doctor. You are not required to give your real name or tell staff who your doctor is if you do not wish to.
Unless you request it, no information about your visit to the clinic will be shared with the GP or anyone else outside the clinic.
If you prefer, you can request to see a female or male doctor or nurse.
A doctor or nurse at a sexual health clinic:
Will ask you some questions about your sexual life and may request to examine your genitals or anus. Will tell you what tests they believe you require
Some clinics provide home testing kits for certain STIs.
If tests reveal that you have an STI, inform your sexual partner and ex-partners so they can be tested and treated.
If you do not want to do this, the clinic can usually do it without identifying you.
STIs that are commonly encountered
STIs are classified as follows:
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- Trichomoniasis
- Warts on the genitalia
- Herpes genitalis
- Public scabies
- Scabies
- Syphilis
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) (HPV)
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